Next Generation Scholars program highlights local reach; small grants boost field trips and student supports

Tasha Williams of the Maryland Business Roundtable for Education (MBRT) briefed the board on the Next Generation Scholars (NGS) program and related supports. Williams said the program currently has 542 NextGen scholars in Wicomico County and described statewide metrics — NGS serves over 2,000 students, the speakers bureau has completed more than 21,000 engagements, and Way to Be magazine distribution exceeds 55,000 copies.

Williams detailed program activities last year including college visits (three colleges, 138 students), career tours (31 students to Delmarva Power), industry day in Baltimore, alumni internships and a planned local mentorship pilot that will link current students with recent alumni now in college. She introduced alumni and MBRT staff present to illustrate program impact on students' college and career pathways.

In the grants report, Dr. Reger said MSDE increased a previously reported $21,000 award for elementary/secondary social‑studies and science field trips by $5,665 to support visits to museums and historic sites (including the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum). RMF Consulting provided $2,000 to support coats and necessities at Wicomico Middle School, a community foundation grant of $500 was announced to assist hygiene/clothing needs, and the National Association of Secondary School Principals awarded $800 to James M. Bennett High School for a student service project. Reger said three grants totaling over $6,000 were submitted in January for future reporting.

Board members asked how NextGen reaches night‑school students and where funding originated; presenters said qualifying students receive NGS information and funding originally came via MSDE and currently is routed through MPEC (as referenced by presenters). The board thanked MBRT for its partnership and said staff will continue collaborating on college and career pathways.